OPINION: Built Environment Professionals' participation in upcoming national elections is vital

Mlondi Cele, a Built Environment Professional, emphasizes the significance of the upcoming national elections for the construction and built sectors. He encourages stakeholders to actively participate and articulate their expectations to influence economic policies and attract investments. Cele believes that the involvement of industry professionals and stakeholders in the elections can positively impact the industry's future and create favorable outcomes for all.

The South African elections are of paramount importance to the construction and built sectors, as they have the potential to significantly influence their future trajectories. Economic, policy, and regulatory changes stemming from the elections can either catalyze growth or present novel challenges. Consequently, it is a pivotal juncture for stakeholders in these industries to actively participate in the electoral process and advocate for their interests.

The construction and built environment industry plays a central role in South Africa's economy, emphasizing the imperative for this sector to articulate its expectations during elections. Several factors contribute to the significance of these elections for the construction industry.

Firstly, the construction industry comprises a substantial portion of South Africa's overall GDP, contributing approximately 3%. By actively participating in elections and voicing their expectations, industry stakeholders can influence economic policies that directly impact their businesses.

Secondly, the construction industry is inextricably linked to infrastructure development, encompassing key areas such as roads, bridges, railways, dams, and housing. Clearly articulated expectations from the industry can provide valuable guidance to policymakers in prioritizing infrastructure projects and optimizing resource allocation.

Thirdly, construction projects generate significant employment opportunities, particularly for both skilled and unskilled labor. By expressing their expectations, industry players can advocate for policies that foster job growth and training programs within the sector.

Fourthly, elections offer an avenue to address regulatory challenges encountered by the industry. Expectations related to licensing, permits, safety regulations, and compliance can be conveyed to policymakers to facilitate a more favorable regulatory environment.

Fifthly, industry expectations can influence investor confidence. A stable political landscape and conducive policies entice both local and foreign investments in construction projects, which are essential for economic growth and development.

Sixthly, expectations regarding sustainable practices, green building, and technological advancements can shape the industry's trajectory. Advocating for research, development, and innovation is paramount to ensuring the industry's long-term competitiveness and sustainability.

Finally, by making their expectations known, construction industry leaders can collaborate with the government to address pressing issues such as load shedding, rising material costs, and supply chain disruptions. Active participation and clear communication of expectations by industry professionals during elections empower the industry to contribute to South Africa's growth, job creation, and sustainable development. It ensures that policymakers are cognizant of the sector's needs and can make informed decisions that benefit all stakeholders.

Following these elections, I anticipate that the elected government will provide robust policy support for infrastructure development, including commitments to invest in new projects, maintain existing infrastructure, and streamline regulatory processes to facilitate timely project execution. Such support is crucial for the construction sector's well-being and can result in job creation, economic growth, and enhanced quality of life for citizens through improved infrastructure.

Additionally, I expect that the newly elected government will prioritize policies that promote sustainable construction practices and the adoption of green technologies. This aligns with global trends and contributes to South Africa's endeavors to confront climate change and uphold environmental sustainability.

Furthermore, I expect the establishment of more public-private partnership opportunities to leverage private sector expertise and funding in public construction projects. This can help bridge the infrastructure funding gap, expedite project delivery, and introduce innovative solutions to address South Africa's infrastructure challenges.

Mlondi Cele holds a BSc Eng degree from UKZN and began his career as an Engineer in Training at ESKOM KZN OU. He then joined the National Department of Public Works and Infrastructure (NDPWI) as a Candidate Engineer. In 2020, he registered as a Professional Engineer with ECSA and joined the Gauteng Department of Infrastructure Development as a production engineer. This year, he has embraced the role of Senior Engineer within the telecommunications environment at Eskom. Outside of work, he is passionate about reading and staying informed about technological advancements and global politics.

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